7 Best Ways To Reuse Old Gift Cards

We all have that drawer. You know the one. It’s filled with expired coupons, random keys, and a sad little pile of old gift cards with a balance of exactly $0.34.

You can’t use them, but throwing them out feels weirdly wasteful. That plastic has to go somewhere, right? Well, some seriously creative people are turning that plastic trash into treasure.

Instead of tossing them, you can give those old gift cards a second life as a surprisingly thoughtful gift. Here are some of the coolest things I’ve found.

 

 

Wearable Art Made From Old Gift Cards

Upcycled Nordstrom Gift Card Dangle Earrings

At $24.00, these are perfect for the fashion lover who appreciates quirky, sustainable accessories.

These aren’t just earrings; they’re a conversation starter. They take old Nordstrom gift cards and transform them into colorful, super lightweight statement pieces. Because each pair is totally one-of-a-kind, you’re giving a gift that literally no one else has.

They’re fun and artsy, so they might not be for your friend who only wears delicate gold jewelry. But for the person who loves a pop of color and a good story, these are a total win.

 

 

Blue Upcycled Quilled Earrings by Lokta Cards

For just $8.00, these are a fantastic find for the budget-conscious friend who loves handmade, artsy jewelry.

It’s amazing what a little creativity can do! These earrings are made from upcycled materials with a cool, intricate quilled design. They feel crafty and special without costing a ton, making them a perfect “just because” gift or stocking stuffer.

 

 

Fused Plastic Credit Card Wallet by Upcycle Hawaii

This $32.00 wallet is for the minimalist who wants a durable, eco-conscious card holder that’s nearly indestructible.

Upcycle Hawaii literally melts layers of reclaimed plastic together to create this wallet. The result is a tough, waterproof, and flexible material that feels really unique. It’s slim enough to slip into any pocket, but strong enough to handle daily abuse.

Just know that since it’s made from whatever plastic they have on hand, the color and pattern are always a surprise. That’s part of the charm!

 

 

Essential Card Pocket Recycled Wallet by TORRAIN

At $24.00, this is the ideal gift for the on-the-go traveler who carries just the essentials.

This little wallet is deceptively simple. It has a few pockets for cards and a spot for cash, all in a super slim design made from recycled materials. It’s perfect for someone who hates a bulky wallet and just wants to grab their ID, a credit card, and go.

 

 

For the Musician Who Has Everything

Upcycled Credit Card Guitar Pick Pack of 10

This pack of 10 picks is $24.18 and is a hilarious, practical gift for the guitarist who loses picks constantly.

My brother is this person. He’s always searching for a pick. This pack is punched from old credit cards and gift cards, so you can often see the original logos and colors. It’s a fun piece of novelty gear that actually works.

The thickness can vary a bit from pick to pick, so a pro might be picky. But for jamming with friends, they’re absolutely perfect.

 

 

Handmade Recycled Guitar Picks (Set of 12)

For only $3.00, this set is a no-brainer for the beginner musician or a kid who’s just getting into guitar.

What a charming stocking stuffer! This set gives you a dozen handmade picks from recycled plastic. It’s an easy, inexpensive way to give a little something with an eco-friendly story behind it.

 

 

Leaf Guitar Picks – The Plastic Pick by Twig Case Co.

At $9.00, this is a special pick for the gear-loving guitarist who appreciates artisan accessories.

This isn’t just a piece of recycled plastic; it’s a tool. Each pick is hand-beveled and polished for a super smooth feel. The maker says they’re designed to wear in over time, like a favorite pair of jeans, which is just such a cool concept for a guitar pick.

 

 

So, What’s the Big Deal?

Honestly, giving a gift made from reused materials just feels good. It shows you put in a little extra thought, not just about the person, but about the world, too.

It’s about finding something with a story. A pair of earrings isn’t just a pair of earrings; they used to be a shopping trip. A guitar pick isn’t just a pick; it used to be someone’s coffee money.

So next time you clean out that junk drawer, don’t just head for the trash can. You might be holding onto someone’s next favorite gift.